Naperville Area CHamber of Commerce Government Affairs Roundup

The mission statement for the City of Naperville is: “To provide services that ensure a high quality of life for our residents and a dynamic environment for our business community through collaboration, innovation, and sound fiscal management.” One of the four “ends policies” the Naperville City Council and City staff identified in 2015 to realize this mission is economic development-Naperville will be the location of choice for businesses.

Evidence abounds that this “end policy” is being operationalized. We have highlighted Naperville’s successes in this area including our city being ranked top in retail sales in the Chicago Metropolitan suburbs. New businesses continue to choose Naperville as their place of operation. Most recently, at their August 20th meeting this week, our council members adopted a resolution with their intent to consider a “business district” designation to support investment in blight areas of the city such as the long- vacated Sam’s Club and Walmart on Route 59. This along with other efforts, support future economic growth in our area.

The success of our business community contributes significantly to the tax revenues generated. But, how will these revenues be invested to ensure our business community continues to flourish? Will Naperville continue to be the location of choice for businesses?

On September 10th at 7:30 a.m., our members will have the opportunity to hear from city officials about how they are proposing to allocate tax revenues. In addition, members will have the opportunity for meaningful dialogue to discuss their priorities and concerns.